2009 is the year earmarked to herald the birth of a new era in Formula One™. A 2,550 hectare natural island in Abu Dhabi, the Capital of the United Arab Emirates, is currently being sculpted into a circuit that will challenge the very best F1™ drivers and thrill their most ardent fans.

In early 2007, Formula 1’s™ most recognizable face - Mr. Bernie Ecclestone - announced that Abu Dhabi will host a Grand Prix from 2009 in front of an elated crowd of tens of thousands of local people.

“We are delighted to welcome Abu Dhabi into the Formula One™ family, and look forward to a long and successful partnership. Abu Dhabi’s hospitality, the genuine warmth of its people, and ever increasing number of world class facilities, will ensure that its round of the FIA Formula One™ World Championship is a wonderful addition to the Formula One™ calendar,” said Mr. Bernie Ecclestone, CEO, Formula One™ Management.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital, and largest of the seven Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, will provide an idyllic location for one the world’s most popular sports. With over 200 natural islands, offering some of the most untouched beaches in the region, it is fast becoming one of the most sought out destinations in the world.

The 2009 Formula One™ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place on Yas Island Circuit, Abu Dhabi, which is set to be one of the longest and most demanding race tracks in the world. It is the vision of renowned F1™ circuit designer Hermann Tilke and will deliver a number of unique firsts for Formula One™ as it combines a non-permanent section to deliver all the drama of a street circuit, with a high-speed permanent race track that incorporates a marina and state-of-the-art stadium seating.

“Abu Dhabi will bring its own unique culture, landscape and fans to the F1™ experience,” said His Excellency Khaldoon Al Mubarak. “The track design alone is an indication of the visionary approach we are taking and I am confident we will deliver something truly special,” he added.

5.6 kilometers in length, Yas Island Circuit will boast an average speed of 198km/hour and have at least three areas for overtaking. The 10m track elevation in relation to turns will make driving difficult and demanding, but a thrilling experience for drivers and spectators alike. The Circuit design will bring the cars within five meters of the waters edge in parts as it wraps around the spectacular marina, which has a size and depth to allow more than 150 yachts, including up to 20 yachts in excess of 100ft length and six 200ft-long mega yachts, to be berthed.

Yas Island Circuit is being constructed by ALDAR Properties, one of the UAE’s leading property development companies, and is on track for a completion date of Quarter 4, 2008, well in advance of its first race.

In addition to the Circuit, Yas Island will feature a wealth of attractions to appeal to all tastes and interests, including the world’s first Ferrari Experience theme park, luxury hotels, lagoons, beaches, boutiques and parkland golf courses.

Copyright 1999-2016 | AutoRacing1 is an
independent internet online publication and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed
by IndyCar, NASCAR, FIA, Sprint, or any other series sponsor.
This material may not be published, broadcast, or redistributed without
permission.